Hudson River Way opening celebrated

The city of Albany and downtown businesses will throw a party Saturday to celebrate the opening of the Hudson River Way, a $6.5 million pedestrian bridge across Route 787 to the Corning Preserve. Designed to reconnect Albany with its waterfront, the bridge is also expected to boost evening and weekend business for downtown restaurants, shops and entertainment venues.

Downtown restaurants, including McGeary's, the Victory Cafe and the Riverfront Bar and Grille, will feature food and drink specials and live entertainment. The event will also include an outdoor performance by the Malayan Melody Makers, featured in the Capital Repertory Theatre's latest production "Song of Singapore," and a sidewalk sale.

Additionally, two programs Saturday will highlight Albany's history. Hartgen Archeological Associates Inc. will present an Archeology and History Walk, leaving every 15 minutes from the Visitors Center at Quackenbush Square from 1 to 2:15 p.m. and from 4 to 6 p.m. The Underground Railroad History Project will present half-hour presentations on the Underground Railroad in Albany at 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 p.m.